Everton have been in poor league form this season by their standards and their quest for European football looks all but over. They have failed to replicate their Europa League form in the league but Roberto Martinez‘s men have still shown signs of quality.

The Toffees should be able to stay clear of the relegation zone but with nine games remaining, there is every possibility they could find themselves in trouble, as just six points separates them from 18th place.

Everton have recorded just one victory in their last six games and have only managed seven wins all season, meaning they can only end up with a maximum of 16 total wins compared to last season’s total of 21.

The reverse fixture earlier in the season saw Everton come out on top, beating QPR 3-1 at Goodison Park. They will be hoping for a repeat of that strong win this time around.

QPR have beaten Everton once in their last six attempts in all competitions, and given their recent form it would be surprising to see Rangers get a win here.

Team News

QPR will be without the same four players who have been struck with knee injuries in the shape of Mauricio Isla, Richard Dunne, Leroy Fer and Alejandro Faurlin. Rio Ferdinand is doubtful due to illness and Darnell Furlong remains absent.

Rangers need their key man Charlie Austin to continue to put away his chances as he will be vital if they are to remain in the Premier League.

Everton have four absentees, most notably Kevin Mirallas (hip/thigh). Bryan Oviedo, Tony Hibbert and Steven Pineaar all remain sidelined. Romelu Lukaku has been in good goalscoring form in Everton’s Europa League campaign and needs to replicate that form in the league. He has eight league goals so far and is seven behind his total of 15 last season.

Key Points

Queens Park Rangers’ last five in the Premier League: W/L/L/L/L

Everton’s last five in the Premier League: L/D/L/L/W

Key stat: Everton’s last win away at QPR came in 1995 and they need to get their domestic season back on track.

Key Player: Romelu Lukaku – The big man has eight goals in his last eight appearances in all competitions and his confidence is high.

Score Prediction

Queens Park Rangers 1-2 Everton – This will be a tight game and Everton should just edge it. They will be worked hard for the result and having played on Thursday night will not be doing them any favours.